The first few hours after a storm has passed is critical, especially if your roof has sustained significant damage. You need to file an insurance claim as soon as possible to get the roof storm repair process started. Ritco Group shares tips on how to file an insurance claim for your storm-damaged roof.
Let Your Insurance Provider and Roofing Contractor Know as Soon as You Can
Have the numbers of your insurance provider and roofing contractor always on hand. Once a storm has passed, and your family is safe, call your roofing contractor and insurance adjuster to your home. To process the claim, the insurance adjuster will require proper documentation of the damage as well a quotation on the repair costs. The sooner you have all the requirements processed, the sooner you’ll get approval from your insurance provider.
Never Take the DIY Route
Never take the DIY route when it comes to roofing work, whether it’s renovation roofing, replacement or, in this case, repairs. If your roof is still under warranty, you’re risking forfeiting both warranty and insurance coverage because of unauthorized repairs. Also, should there be workmanship-related issues that arise from your DIY repair work, corrections will have to be paid for out of your own pocket.
Avoid Storm Chasers
Storm chasers are people who claim to be roofing contractors and knock at the doors of storm victims, offering repair work. These unlicensed individuals do more harm than good. They perform cleverly disguised “repairs” that create a false sense of security – that is, until the next storm hits. By then, they will have moved on to another area. Also, much like DIY repair work, you are risking your warranty and insurance coverage by hiring them.
Mind the Location Hazards
Inspect your home for broken glass and other potential hazards, and keep these areas closed off until you get the chance to clean them. Keep an eye out for advisories, cleaning crews and fire trucks to avoid potential hazards like live wires and/or flooding. If shelter is not possible in your home, you will need to have your family stay at relatives or book rooms at a nearby hotel until your roofing is fixed.
Ritco Group is your leading provider of residential and commercial roofing services. Give us a call at (931) 208-2300, or fill out our contact form. We serve clients in Brentwood and Murfreesboro, TN.